And the winner of our vote for 2010 Mykidstime Charity of the Year is The Meningitis Trust!

Meningitis is a life-threatening disease that kills more under-5's in Ireland than any other infectious disease. While children, young adults and the over 55's are most at risk, meningitis can affect anyone of any age at any time. The disease can strike in an instant, but the effects can last a lifetime. Research indicates that 1 in 3 adults in Ireland have either had the disease themselves or knows someone who has.

The Meningitis Trust is Ireland's support organisation for people who are affected or worried by meningitis.  Since it was founded in 2002, the Trust has been working to achieve  its three main aims: Support, Awareness and Education.  Its unique range of services includes a 24 Hour Helpline (1800 523 196), bereavement and family counselling, one-to-one visits and a Community Nurse service, as well as awareness-raising and education programmes. All services are provided free of charge by professional staff, and as the charity receives no statutory government funding it relies on voluntary donations to continue.

For further information about the Meningitis Trust, visit the website on www.meningitis-trust.ie, email: eolas@meningitis-trust.ie or call  01 2764269. To join the email or mailing list and receive news about upcoming events, or to enquire about having Monty the Duck, the Meningitis Trust visit your school or community for a Toddle Waddle, please forward your details to germills@meningitis-trust.ie

Thanks to everyone who voted, here are the final results:

These are all worthy charities that help and support children and families so we ask you to keep them in mind this year when donating to charity.